Bartko and Kluge steal main prize in Amsterdam

German duo Robert Bartko and Roger Kluge have rewritten history by being the first German couple to win the Amsterdam Six Day. For Bartko, 33, it was already his 13th victory having being crowned winner in Amsterdam two years ago with former partner, Belgian Iljo Keisse. For the 23 year old Kluge it was second six day victory but his focus could change having signed a one year contract with Germany’s Milram.

“I am extremely happy with this win because there were several strong teams” said Kluge to WielerMagazine, “I had a really strong teammate” he added. But Bartko was quick to reply, “Roger was also very strong.” The new duo established a large points lead and lap advantage on their rivals. An exciting finale saw them distance Swiss duo Bruno Risi and Franco Marvulli by taking a slim four point margin, taking the win ahead of Risi-Marvulli with German-Dutch combo of Danny Stam and Leif Lampater finishing a respectable third.

Risi, 41, will be retiring after this season, his last appearance in Amsterdam was awarded with a booming applause as he stood upon the second highest step of the podium. Risi has been one of the most succesful six day specialists, winning in Berlin, Zurich, and Hasselt just last year. He was also a strong points race rider, winning numerous world championships in his lengthy career.